How to stop procrastinating and get things done

We all procrastinate from time to time, it’s in our nature. It can be anything from small housework chores to meeting big work deadlines.

As to do lists begin to grow everything can become an impossible task, which starts off the chain reaction where you find yourself YouTubing cat videos.

So stop procrastinating and read this list of top tips to return you to the land of the productive!

Get the worst task done asap

As a fully fledged procrastinator this is not going to be music to your ears, but it’s the top of the list for attacking the tough stuff. As we progress throughout the day our energy and concentration becomes depleted, putting off the really important tasks until the end of the day is practically saying to yourself that you have no intention of tackling them. Checking this off your list first thing will be a boost to your enthusiasm!

Break the task down

Most of us our overwhelmed by the amount of work we have before us in a jam-packed day. The trick here is to stop being disheartened by what you can’t do and focus on how much you can do. Instead of thinking I have to organise a filing cabinet of reports, focus on organising one drawer. Sometimes it’s better to focus on quality over quantity.

Getting a second wind

The morning ritual of emails and to do lists - before you know it the day has flown by and it’s time for lunch. Once you get to 2 pm take a moment to sit back and evaluate. Refocus on the priorities and switch to anything that comes in top of the list - better now than at the end of the day.

Be accountable

Peer pressure is not always a bad thing. The fear of disappointing another can be a rocket of motivation, in the nicest sense. Telling a partner or a friend about tasks can help keep you on the straight and narrow - ask them to check in and crack the whip now and then!

Stamp out interruptions

If you can, break away from the constant stream of beeps and dings - put down the phone and back away. Understandably, this may not apply to those whose livelihood depends on social media interactions, but even so, some form of digital break can be good for shifting focus. Give it a try.

Venture off-site

Wherever you may find zen, that’s where you should be heading. Failing that your nearestWeWork is the perfect place to get focused. Sometimes it can work wonders to take yourself away from your usual surroundings and distractions and focus on important tasks. Vow not to abandon your 10th flat white until you’re done!